Feast your eyes on the architecture of Old Town during your trip to Dhaka, with buildings dating from the Mughal Empire through to British Colonial times. As well as mosques, monasteries and temples dating back as far as the 17th century, tourist attractions include Bangabhaban, the president's official residence.

Lalbagh Fort, once a site of revolt against British rule, is today home to a museum and numerous monuments. One of the city's greatest architectural wonders is Jatiya Sangjad Bhaban, the National Parliament building. Book your visit in advance for the best prices and enjoy a relaxing stroll around the peaceful gardens – an oasis of calm in the heart of one of the world’s busiest cities.

One of the biggest draws for tourists to the region is Cox’s Bazar, 121km of gently sloping powdery beach, reputed to be the world’s third-longest. To get a true picture of just how dramatic and beautiful this region is, make sure you include a tour of Bandarban, part of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. This will take you into the heartland of Bangladesh and to dramatic locations such as Boga Lake and the magnificent architecture of Buddha Dhatu Jadi, a Theravada Buddhist temple.

It is easy to spot the British influences on your trip to Dhaka. The Ahsan Manzil, a Raj-era building, was once home to the Nawab (Mughal governor) of Dhaka. Its pink stonework and imposing dome ensure it is visible for miles around, and today it houses a museum.

Despite its urban sprawl, Dhaka has its fair share of green spaces, and Baldha Gardens in Old Dhaka is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. The National Botanical Gardens, next to the zoo, cover 210 acres and offer plenty of idyllic picnic spots on a hot summer afternoon.

When you travel to Dhaka, you simply must experience some of the city's history and culture. Visit the National Museum to see sculptures and paintings, or the National Museum of Science and Technology for a family-friendly day out.

No stay in Dhaka is complete without a rickshaw ride through the meandering maze of Old Dhaka's alleyways, where you'll mingle with local traders and families going about their day. Take to the water and see the city from a different viewpoint, with a cruise along the Buriganga River from Sadarghat River Front.

A meal in Dhaka can be whatever you want it to be, whether that's street food and Bangladeshi specialities in Old Dhaka, or international fine dining in Banani or Gulshan. Buffet-style restaurants are a popular, value-for-money option, and seafood-lovers will feel instantly at home. Fresh-water fish features heavily on menus alongside vegetable curries and biriyani, with Old Dhaka renowned for its hajir biriyani.

Head for Baily Road and Satmosjid Road for street food. Local sweets such as rasgollah (milk curd balls in syrup) are delicious. Remember, you should never bring food to your mouth with your left hand when dining in Bangladesh.

Because Bangladesh is known for exporting ready-made garments for well-known brands, it's easy to find designer brands for less. Try shopping at areas such as Dhaka College and Banga Bazar.

When you travel to Dhaka, you will find handicrafts and local clothing, such as cotton salwar kameez, surprisingly affordable, and prices are not fixed in most stores. It is well worth bargaining for the best price, or ask a Dhaka resident for assistance, if you are unsure what an item is worth.

Essential facts about Dhaka

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